An overview of the social determinants of eating disorders in Mexico

Jacqueline Olalde Libreros, Sara Pérez-Gil Romo

Abstract

This paper examines some of the main social determinants associated with eating disorders in Mexico.

Eating disorders have been studied by several disciplines. Nutritional research has focused on the particular eating behaviors of those affected with eating disorders. This has led to a better appreciation of the foods eaten by individuals with eating disorders: which foods they limit or restrict, their rejection of foods considered to be of high caloric content, and the various diets they follow in order to lose weight. Risk factors for the development of complications have also been identified. This reductionist view restricts itself to the analysis of individual behavior while ignoring other socio-cultural aspects of these disorders.

The concept of social determination of health permits an analysis of the various components of eating disorders.